Sport
27 February, 2023
Exciting run-chase rained out as Colts Phelans secure top two spot
Rain thwarted what looked to be an intriguing run-chase on Saturday afternoon at Hedges Oval. Just 57 overs were played during the day, which saw Clunes make 4/137 before stumps was called, with both teams eventually earning three points. The...
Rain thwarted what looked to be an intriguing run-chase on Saturday afternoon at Hedges Oval.
Just 57 overs were played during the day, which saw Clunes make 4/137 before stumps was called, with both teams eventually earning three points.
The result, coupled with Maryborough’s draw against Beaufort, seals a top two finish for Colts, while Clunes now have a do-or-die assignment against the Crows over the next fortnight in a game that determines the last spot in the finals.
On Saturday, however, Clunes got off on the right foot in the early stages, with Anthony Ellis and Jude McGuire putting on 62 for the first wicket — the second highest in the competition this season.
However, the game quickly turned for Colts Phelans when Dayne Baker took two wickets within an over, with Ellis trapped in front for LBW for 38, before Luke Tatchell took a great catch to remove Mitchell Coppick, leaving Clunes a little wobbly at 2/64.
When players went off for tea, the rain intensified, leading to a significant delay on the field, which meant that a draw was the likeliest result.
After teams eventually returned to the field, Colts gave themselves a chance with two wickets, with Ashley Gunn trapped in front LBW off the bowling of Ben Stubbings, before McGuire’s stubborn innings came to an end when Baker took a catch off Nicholas Henderson’s bowling for 27.
Clunes were determined not to lose points given their finals berth was on the line, and captain Aidan Thompson and Mark Allen provided calmness and stability when needed, guiding Clunes to the end of the day without losing further wickets — Allen finishing unbeaten on 34, while Thompson finished on 10.
Baker was the pick of the bowlers for Colts, finishing with 2/14 off eight overs, with Henderson bowled eight maidens from 17 overs, while finishing with figures of 1/24.
With a top two position and a home final now secure, Colts will play off for the minor premiership over the next fortnight when they play Laanecoorie Dunolly, while Clunes’ season hinges on their game against the Crows.
